Part 11/14:
The Reality of Age, Maturity, and Decision-Making
The discussion about age and maturity extends beyond journalism. Some argue that the legal age of adulthood—set at 18—should be reevaluated because many individuals do not possess the critical thinking skills necessary for complex decisions at that age. Personal anecdotes highlight that many 18-year-olds are still learning to navigate the world—learning to drive, understand taxes, and handle bureaucratic processes.
This critique underscores that maturity is a fluid concept, not strictly tied to age but influenced by life experiences. Some believe that societal expectations should allow for a broader recognition of adult competence, especially when it comes to making ethically significant decisions.